Recovering your security deposit can seem daunting, but rest assured, it’s entirely possible with the correct method. Moving out of either an apartment or a rental home, keeping the place clean is vital for a full refund of your deposit.
Generally, landlords expect the rental to be immaculate for a full deposit return, which can be tough. This article will provide essential cleaning tips and strategies to leave your rental in excellent condition, impress your landlord, and boost your chances of getting your deposit back without hassle.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
It’s unlikely that you consider your lease a primary source for cleaning tips. Nevertheless, as a renter, your lease agreement and any addenda likely outline your landlord’s expectations. Typically, your lease will provide answers to whether carpets need professional cleaning, which parts will be inspected, and so forth.
Tip #2: Get (and Use) A Move-Out Checklist
Reliable landlords usually provide tenants with a move-out checklist when they give notice of moving out. Should your landlord fail to provide one, you can still access numerous detailed cleaning checklists online. Referring to a checklist while you clean is important to make sure you don’t miss any areas inside or outside. Neglecting small cleaning tasks can add up to large deductions from your deposit, so it’s definitely worth the effort.
Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord
To get your full security deposit back, imagine being in your landlord’s position. Keep in mind the initial condition of the property and aim to restore it to that level of cleanliness. If you need clarification, ask your landlord what they consider “clean” and what they expect. Think about how the next tenant will want a clean space, and leave it as you would want to move into it.
Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind
It’s usual for tenants to leave unwanted personal items in a rental home. However, it takes little extra effort to move your unwanted items to the curb or donate them to a thrift store. Also, if you leave your stuff, the landlord is likely to charge you for its removal and cleanup. This results in a smaller return of your security deposit.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
During the hectic process of moving out, you might feel inclined to do the bare minimum cleaning and take shortcuts. Although this might be acceptable in some cases, it often results in deductions from your security deposit for cleaning and repairs. If feasible, take a bit more time to examine some details. Patch nail holes with drywall putty, and ensure you’ve cleaned interior windows and dusted blinds and ceiling fans.
Stick to these move-out cleaning tips, and your landlord will have little to complain about and no excuse to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.
Do you need a new rental in Ferndale or the nearby area? Real Property Management Advantage has an ideal home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 248-554-1010.
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